Tour a New England Classic

For Merle Thorpe Architects, an integral part of designing a home “lies in advancing the conversation between a building and its broader surroundings, by considering the unique array of influences that enhance a particular property’s sense of place.”

They certainly succeeded in their mission with this enchanting seven-bedroom 6,419-square-foot American shingle–style estate in the quintessential summertime community of Osterville on Cape Cod.

Elements throughout focus on the movement of light and recall life on the sea, with delightful nautical flair that ranges from brass light fixtures and hardware to a mahogany ship’s bar. The home’s interiors exude a timeless quality and a relaxed but classical ambience, striking an ideal balance between formal spaces designed for entertaining and comfortable spaces planned for private repose.

Equipped with top-of-the-line stainless-steel appliances, abundant cabinet and counter space, and a thoughtful butler’s pantry, the kitchen is open to informal living and dining areas that are cheerful and full of light.

Each of the bedrooms is a charming, quiet sanctuary. Numerous covered terraces and screened porches encourage enjoyment of the lush outdoors and create a vibrant flow between indoors and out.

Ultimately, though, life on Cape Cod is all about the water, and this home fits right in. Its impeccably landscaped 1.22-acre grounds also include a gunite swimming pool accompanied by a stone terrace, deeded beach rights at Nantucket Sound, and access to Eel River.